Shaefer’s anglerfish, Sladenia shaefersi


Once on board ship, “Bubba” was measured, weighed, studied, and preserved. A sample of his bacteria was also taken for Mark Mitchell’s antimicrobial study. The “fishing poles” on his head are illiceum, or the first and second spines of the dorsal fin. These attract prey, which swim just above his huge mouth. He then sucks the prey in. Note the centimeter scale markings on the white table.

Related Links

Estuary to the Abyss

Estuary to the Abyss: August 27 Log

NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery

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